Column: Rich Murray, Guest Column

Thank you, District 27A.

I would like to give a huge thank you to everyone who lives in District 27A. It is your spirit and enthusiasm that make my job as your state representative so rewarding. I am committed to helping southern Minnesota grow and prosper.

Two years ago, I made a decision to help our communities control their own destiny, not watch outside interests try and control it for us. I got involved to help make this area and the state of Minnesota a little better for our children and grandchildren. I stepped forward because I wanted to make a difference for the residents of 27A.

I have been humbled by the support and encouragement you have shown when I knocked on your door. I have enjoyed listening to your stories and will keep them with me as I work for you and represent you. It is these interactions that keep me going.

This election has been a hard one. I have seen my photo on wanted posters and listened to hundreds of radio and TV ads telling people not to approach me, as if I were a criminal. These ads are very hard on my family and probably discourage good people from running for public office.

For me, however, these ads only strengthen my resolve. I know that being a leader is not always easy. I will continue to make decisions based on what is best for our community, not to avoid being attacked by either party.

I have taken heat from my own party for my votes and now I am getting heat from the other party suggesting that I am some kind of pawn. As my wife explains, this is like trying to answer to your oldest and youngest grandchild as to which one you love the most. Of course, you love them both, but you have to do what is best for them in the long run — not convince them that one is your favorite. All it tells me is I’m well balanced in my representation of the district, and I’m happy with that.

Thank you for greeting me at your door, emailing me your concerns, calling me with questions and speaking up at public events. I have heard from many of you that we need more opportunities for employment and good paying jobs. I hear the anxiety in your voices when you say that you are living paycheck to paycheck.

I will work hard to make the important decisions in St. Paul that will help remove barriers to job creation and create policies that will help grow the economy and put Minnesotans back to work. We must reform regulations and adopt policies that will make us competitive with the states that surround us.

I also agree with many of you who have said that that our state government is trying to do too many things for too many people. Government still costs too much and we must reform the way government operates to make it more efficient and effective. Our economy remains fragile, and I am committed to help any way I can.

It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as your state representative for the past two years. I am asking for your support and look forward to the opportunity to serve you for two more years in St. Paul. I will continue to work hard and will be accessible to hear your questions and concerns. Please give me, Rich Murray, your support and vote on Nov. 6.

 

Rich Murray, R-Albert Lea, is the incumbent state representative for District 27A.